Hi Friends,

I hope you had a nice 4th with your loved ones and friends.

I started writing this post early last week, but I just couldn't find the words so I spent this last week gathering my thoughts, spending quality time with Jonny and our families, and sharing countless stories about our Charlie Brown. He truly was my best friend, furry soul mate, and sidekick.

I never thought about writing this post and really never imagined it would be so soon. As many of you may know through social media, Charlie Brown passed away very unexpectedly last week. I want to thank you all for the kind words, memories, and love that you have shared with Jonny and me. It warms my heart to know how many lives Mr. Brown touched. The joy he brought to our lives over the past 10 years is indescribable. If you have been following along for a little while now, you know that Mr. Brown was a big part of this blog and I wanted to share some of our favorite memories of him.

I got Charlie the summer before my sophomore year in college. He helped me make every adult decision I ever made and was by my side for every major event in my life. It sounds silly, but I believe he really shaped the person I am today. He moved into my first place with me in college, attended my last day of school (I know, I took him everywhere), was there when Jonny and I met, bought our first home, present at our wedding and with a smile at the top of the stairs every day since. He made me smile and laugh each day, even in the worst of moods. Our boy will be truly missed.

I am so thankful for the timing of this blog. I started Denver Darling a little over a year ago and Charlie Brown, the ham that he was - loved posing for pictures, and I am so glad we were able to document countless memories of the last year of his life that Jonny and I will absolutely cherish forever.

Many of you have asked what happened to our sweet Charlie so suddenly, and we learned that his breed specifically is prone to a fast moving cancer that likely grew in weeks then caused internal bleeding. We were away earlier in the week when he stopped eating and drinking. Zoe was watching him and took him to the vet after he ignored chicken and ice cream and the vet explained to Jonny and me over the phone that he likely wouldn't make it through the day. Jonny was a groomsmen to his good friend so he had to stay, but I knew I needed to be with Mr. Brown as soon as possible. I got on the next possible flight and 13 hours later got to be with him to say goodbye. I am so grateful for our final time together and the tremendous love he brought to our lives. We will miss you forever Mr. Brown.